10 Downtown Raleigh Reception Venues for a Stylish Celebration

Choosing a venue is one of the first and most important decisions you'll make during the wedding planning process. If you have your sights set on getting married in North Carolina, consider these Raleigh reception venues for an event as charming as the downtown scene.

Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern

Built in 1871 for Mayor Dodd, this home was lost by his family due to financial reversals and purchased by the Hinsdale family shortly afterwards. The house remained a gathering spot for the family for years before it was acquired and renovated by its current owners back in the early 1990s. The former Dodd-Hinsdale House is now the Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern and although much has changed, it still retains its Victorian-inspired structure and unique charm for smaller events.

DoubleTree By Hilton Raleigh Brownstone - University

In contrast to the previous location, this Raleigh reception venue takes on a more vibrant persona. After its renovations were completed in 2012, DoubleTree By Hilton Raleigh Brownstone - University is full of luxurious accommodations and modern event spaces for you and your wedding guests. It's not a far trek from some of downtown's best sites including plenty of museums and shopping, which makes it an ideal spot for entertaining your out-of-town guests during their visit.

Market Hall

If you're seeking a venue with a casual-meets-elegant style, the historic Market Hall offers exactly that. With its brick accent walls and high ceilings, this open space makes the perfect blank slate to create a wedding reception of any style.

City Club Raleigh

As one of the most well-known Raleigh reception venues, City Club Raleigh features views overlooking downtown as the backdrop for your festivities. The floor-to-ceiling windows and unique hanging decor over the staircase also provide gorgeous opportunities for your wedding photos.

Caffé Luna

Situated in a majestic historic building, this Raleigh reception venue encompasses a cozy atmosphere in the midst of the city life. It's primarily known for its delicious Italian cuisine, making it a great location if you're looking either to add some Tuscan flair to your event. After all, what's an Italian family gathering without plenty of amazing food?

Gallery C

If you're planning a smaller events, consider Gallery C for a more simple yet sophisticated setting. Located two blocks north of the Governor's Mansion, the gallery comfortably seats 50 people within the Russ Edwards House. Full of historic fine art exhibits, this place is a charming setting for the couple who especially has an eye for antique prints.

Solas Raleigh

While it's easy to find Raleigh reception venues that embody their own specific styles, you definitely won't find that here. At Solas Raleigh, every level of the building takes on a different atmosphere from private open-air patios to a luxurious rooftop. But the most thrilling feature is a glass-bottom dance floor on the second level - if heights make you nervous, don't look down as you dance the night away.

North Carolina Museum of Art

Likewise, this downtown venue offers plenty of spaces to accommodate different event styles. If you're planning an outdoor reception, everyone will enjoy the sculpture garden of the North Courtyard or the green surroundings of the Education Gardens. From the elegant West Building Great Hall to the unique East Building Main Hall (formerly the Egyptian Gallery), you also have plenty of indoor facilities to choose from for your celebration.

Tucker House

During the early 20th century, the Tucker House served as a cozy family home and the scene of several formal teas. In the 1930s, a fire broke out on the first floor and substantially damaged part of the home as the family slept. Even throughout the demolition of many homes nearby in the years to follow, the home has been repaired, restored and relocated and now remains a significant part of the city's history. Besides its neo-classical revival style, the home's dark wood accents and antique furniture will fit right into your vintage-inspired reception.

The Royal Banquet

Opened during the 1950s, the Royal Bakery radiated alluring scents of freshly baked bread down Hillsborough Street. Now it serves as an elegant reception venue and has also earned a well-deserved spot in the National Register of Historic Places. Among its modern updates, you'll still detect the vintage vibes from the Royal Banquet's exposed brick walls and Old World décor. With amazing Raleigh reception venues like this one, you'll definitely want to take a look at these for your other wedding festivities too.